Today we’d like to introduce you to Armoni Smith.
Hi Armoni, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I am the Executive Director for Open Hearts Community, a nonprofit organization based in Dallas, Texas. Open Hearts Community is a faith based organization dedicated to improving the mental health and wellness of the black and brown community through advocacy, education, and resource direction. I began my journey with non-profit work in 2011 as a volunteer with Circle of Support Dallas. Throughout my educational career, I have always kept a hand in community engagement and support. Open Hearts is a vision turned to reality, spreading awareness that will strengthen the culture.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
In 2017 things took a turn, and I was diagnosed with clinical depression and anxiety. My desire to be involved in the community diminished, and my symptoms became overwhelming. 6 years later, after tons of self-help endeavors, therapy, and support from my community, I have chose to turn my trial to triumph. I have navigated through some of the toughest times and want to provide resources, education, and community to anyone who may walking the same walk.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Open Hearts Community hosts an annual Mental Health Awareness Walk in Dallas, Texas. We walk to increase awareness and have a resource fair that connects the community to the resources they need. As a developing non profit organization we are dedicated to providing a safe space for conversations around mental health and wellness, staying true to our vision, and working together to build our community.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I’ve learned to combat the barriers that prevent us from optimal health and wellness by leaning into faith and community. My faith led me through my own personal struggles and strengthened me to a new level so that I can help others do the same.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @openheartscomm https://instagram.com/openheartscomm?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
- Other: https://linktr.ee/openheartscommunity
